Sep2013_OLD MILL ANIMAL HOSPITAL NEWS

The Hendra Virus vaccination, Equivac HeV, has been a topic of many forums and groups since its release in November last year.  The vaccine, which is the only vaccine in the world to prevent Hendra virus, is shown to be safe and completely effective in protecting our horses against this infamously fatal virus.

The vaccine is on a special limited use register(similar to sedatives and NSAID medications), allowing veterinarians who have completed accreditation, to administer the vaccine with all horse details under strict regulation. 

The manufacturers, Zoetis (formally Pfizer), have completed research which shows the vaccination is 100% effective in the horse for up to 6 months.  Research into the effectiveness of the vaccine at the 12 month mark is still being finalised.  One 12 month trial showed very positive results but the data was   rejected by the governing authorities on the basis that the horses were not challenged with a high enough concentration of Hendra virus.  The 12 month trial is due to be re- run (with higher virus challenge) and completed late this year.  

We understand the frustration for horse owners waiting to hear more information on the booster period, and appreciate the patience shown in getting the 6 month boosters out of the way.

We believe there is no substitute for the peace of mind of knowing you have protected both your horse and your family, when you choose to vaccinate against Hendra virus.  It has infuriated the wider horse community that there have been six fatal Hendra virus cases in the last month (in unvaccinated horses), despite this effective vaccine being available to everyone. 

There are many scare campaigns circulating, and the vets and nurses from Old Mill Animal Hospital have heard some real doozys.  The rumours include that the vaccine is unsafe, unproven, means your horse can never be exported, or causes infertility.  The reality is that there is no way for Equivac HeV to cause infertility in your horse.  This rumour has surfaced because theoretically a mare in foal could experience a slight fever as part of the vaccination regime, which like any fever, could cause an abortion.  There are no documented instances of this happening; however there are many proven cases of successful, issue-free vaccinations in pregnant mares. Horses are also able to be exported internationally, excepting three ports that have not yet updated their regulations to reflect the existence of the vaccine.

We know there are owners out there that have questions about whether the vaccine is suitable for your horse, so we urge you to contact the Old Mill Animal Hospital on 3425 2222 to discuss your hesitations, with our experienced team.